Akpata Awards Scholarships to U-19 Girls After World Cup Qualify

Uyi Akpata, President of the Nigeria Cricket Federation, announced full university scholarships and special student contracts for the Junior Female Yellow Greens following their qualification for the 2027 ICC U-19 Women’s T20 World Cup. This announcement was made during a dinner reception on Monday at the Tafawa Balewa Cricket Oval in Lagos.

The team became champions of the ICC U-19 Women’s T20 World Cup Africa Qualifier after defeating Zimbabwe by four runs in a tense final at the ESTIM Ground in Tanzania. Nigeria defended a total of 98 runs, dismissing Zimbabwe for 94 with one ball remaining, completing an unbeaten campaign with five victories.

Akpata praised the team's efforts, stating, “You are all on full scholarship until you finish your university.” He also mentioned that players not currently under national team contracts would receive special student contracts. The team, led by captain Christabel Chukwuonye, includes standout players like Omosigho Eguakun, who was the tournament's leading run-scorer.

Nigeria will join South Africa as Africa’s representatives at the World Cup, marking their second consecutive appearance.